Toxic elements in mountain soils (Little Beskids, Polish Carpathians)

Abstract

The research consisted in the analyses pertaining to the occurrence of elements regarded as toxic (Zn, Cu, Ni, Cr, As, Pb, Cd, Hg), the presence of which in the environment is mainly associated with economic-industrial activities in mountain soils. The research area of about 5 sq. km. included the hilltops and south-western slopes of the Magurka Wilkowicka massif. The massif is situated on the western edge of the Little Beskids near the area of Bielsko-Biala city. The concentrations of elements were measured in 50 soil samples taken from three zones: at the foothill of the massif (arable fields), on its slopes (forest areas) and on the hilltop (grassland). Additionally, the pH of the soil samples was determined. The research showed that zinc and, to a lesser degree, copper and nickel, occurred in the highest concentrations at the foot of the massif, near built-up areas, while the highest concentrations of arsenic and lead were detected in the hilltop part of the grassland. The concentrations of chromium, cadmium and mercury did not differ spatially. The analysed elements, especially zinc and lead, often occurred in the concentrations higher than those regarded as natural. It is a disturbing fact combined with serious acidity of the analysed soils (almost 60% of the samples were very acid soils), which may increase mobility of metals. The research shows that the soil environment of the Polish Carpathians may be contaminated with toxic elements not only in the neighbourhood of built-up areas, but also in the undeveloped land.